It has been a few years since I last stayed at the Lancrigg Hotel in Grasmere. In fact, it was back when I was editor of Lakeland Walker magazine.
Grasmere is a lovely village, much given over to tourism, thanks to its association with William Wordsworth. Most of the buildings date from the 19th or early 20th centuries, with St Oswald’s Church dating from the 13th century. William and his wife Mary have a simple tombstone in the churchyard, and this is possibly one of the most visited literary shrines in the world.
Nestled in gardens and woodlands, the Lancrigg Hotel has recently re-opened after major refurbishment. The stunning building is steeped in rich history and owner, Simon Wright, feels he has the tools to modernise this quirky hotel and start 2018 on a positive note. The hotel is to be renamed Lancrigg Restaurant with Rooms, showcasing a new menu and interior.
Simon took over the longstanding hot-spot for those passing through Grasmere in 2016. Having been brought up in the hospitality industry and then training as a landscape architect, he felt he had the knowledge and the tools to bring the hotel to new heights. Having completely modernised the hotel, Wright has upgraded all of the 10 bedrooms, which have been transformed and updated, and gas central heating and a new state-of-the-art commercial hot water system have been installed.
In the public areas, the stunning interior now features faux ivy in the hallway, boasting an outdoorsy look, indoors. The living and dining rooms have been beautifully transformed to the highest standard, keeping the heart and quirkiness that the regulars of Lancrigg love, with comfy, yet stylish seating with stunning views throughout. The staff in the hotel have even been treated to new living quarters for the new season.
Moving outdoors, Wright has improved the parking area outside the hotel to make it easier for guests to access, with roads also being improved. His clear experience with landscape has helped innovatively change the entrance, creating a more welcoming approach. New signage will be the final touch is this transformation.
“To see Lancrigg refreshed under this current renovation is so fulfilling. So much effort has been put in by our team and we are all delighted with the result,” Simon told Essential Journeys. “Our goal was to retain the character and quirks of the place whilst bringing it into the future, which I think we have achieved. It is great to see Lancrigg blossoming again and the potential of the place start to emerge.”
Other work Wright has already carried out includes the addition of the Poet’s Bar, a lounge area where guests can enjoy more casual drinks and dining. Lancrigg will remain a family and dog friendly establishment with four-legged companions still welcomed within the hotel.
The Restaurant with Rooms has 10 guest rooms in total, including two family suites and one accessible room. With all the upgrade work carried out throughout the hotel, a rosette award may be just round the corner.
